Jean Valjean

The always-terrific Grégory Gadebois re-teams with writer/director Éric Besnard (Delicious) for a poignant new adaptation of Victor Hugo’s masterpiece Les Miserables, charting the origin story of Jean Valjean, the beloved tale’s iconic protagonist.

1815. Provence, France. In the peaceful village of Digne, there’s a rumour that a dangerous man has entered the area. The hulking Jean (Gadebois) has just been released from prison after nineteen years of hard labour. Issued with identification that forever sees him branded a criminal and ostracised, Jean is not surprised to be repeatedly turned away as he seeks refuge for the night. Desperate, he unknowingly knocks at the door of the house of Monseigneur Bienvenu (Bernard Campan), who lives simply with his sister (Isabelle Carré) and a lone servant (Alexandra Lamy).

Against all odds, Bienvenu invites him in. On this crucial night, Jean will face a choice that will define his future... A gripping exploration of justice, grace and moral redemption, Besnard’s reflective and intimate drama - and Gadebois’ towering central performance - bring great depth to Hugo’s hero, a spurned man transformed by kindness and compassion.

Screening at Luna Leederville, Luna on SX, and Windsor Cinema from April 23.